Prove log(n)/n^sigma is a null sequence.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on proving that the expression log(n)/n^σ is a null sequence for σ > 0 and base b > 1. Participants explore various ideas and perspectives on the proof, with a focus on mathematical reasoning and theoretical understanding.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant clarifies that the base b refers to the base of the logarithm function.
  • Another participant presents a proof involving the relationship between b, σ, and the behavior of the sequence as n approaches infinity, suggesting that for sufficiently large n, the sequence is less than a specified ε.
  • The proof references the characteristic of log n and introduces a condition that n must exceed a certain value, prompting a question about the reasoning behind this condition.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have not reached a consensus on the proof, as questions remain regarding the justification of certain steps and conditions within the argument.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes unresolved questions about the assumptions made in the proof, particularly concerning the threshold value for n and its implications for the sequence's behavior.

elliti123
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Mod note: Moved from the homework section.
1. Homework Statement

If σ > 0 and base b > 1 then prove that ##log n/n^σ## is a null sequence. This is not really a homework since i am self studying Konrad Knopp book about infinite series and i wanted to see different ideas and perspectives on the proof of the problem.Thanks.
 
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Can you provide your proof of the problem?

Also what is the b value? Is it the base of the log function?
 
Yes the b is the base of the log function.
 
Mod note: Edited text below to make it more readable.
If b > 1 then we have ##b^σ > 1##. Therefore ##(n/(b^σ)^n)## is a null sequence.
Given ε > 0 we have consequently from a point onwards - say for every n > m, ##(n/(b^σ)^n) < ε' = ε/b^σ##. But in any case, ##log n/n^σ < b^σ(g + 1/(b^σ)^g b^1 ))## . If g denotes the characteristic of log n . If therefore, ## n > b^m## Then, ## |(log\ n/n^σ)| < ε ∀\ n > b^m## Q.E.D

This is the proof of the book and it is a theorem not in the exercises as the author is building up the knowledge of the reader, but as i read this again i have one question now how did he come up with what n has to be bigger than ?
 
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